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ASPCA Happy Tails: From A to Zeus

Every single day, ASPCA staffers have the privilege of meeting some of the most wonderful, spirited animals you could ever encounter. In fact, one of the hardest parts of our job is resisting the urge to adopt each and every one of them! But every now and then, we’ll meet an animal that inspires us to throw that resistance out the window. Such was the case with our very own Dr. Colin Dwyer, DVM, and an abused Pit Bull named Zeus.

As a veterinarian for the ASPCA, Dr. Dwyer has seen his fair share of dogs. He’s also seen his fair share of heartbreak. “I’ve met a lot of dogs that are ideal in every way, but that get ignored because they’re too big, or are of a demonized breed such as Pit Bulls,” he says. Determined to make a difference for one such dog, Dr. Dwyer waited patiently for the perfect fit.

In January, members of the ASPCA’s Anti-Cruelty Group and the Adoption Center’s behavior staff all recommended that he meet a dog named Zeus. “They knew my love for big dogs, and everyone in the hospital had fallen in love with Zeus while caring for his injuries,” says the vet. The two were introduced, and it was an ideal match. “Zeus was the dog I’d been waiting for: a large Pit Bull covered in scars, but housetrained and as sweet as can be,” he says. “He is one of the most affectionate dogs I’ve ever met—amazing given his history of neglect and abuse.”

After adopting Zeus, Colin changed his name to Goose. He tells us, “Goose is adjusting well to our house, aside from shamelessly hogging the bed! He is quiet, cute, well-trained and also very playful.” Everyone at the ASPCA is so happy for Dr. Dwyer and Goose, not only for proving that all dogs—including big ones, scarred ones and bully breeds—can make perfect pets, but also for demonstrating how lucky we are to work with these truly extraordinary animals every single day.

Do you have a Happy Tail you’d like to share? Email your story to [email protected] and we might feature it on the blog!

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